How to become a Medical Receptionist
Do you have a passion for healthcare and a desire to make a positive impact? Look no further than a medical receptionist role! You’ll be at the heart of the patient experience, providing a calming presence and easing anxieties. From scheduling appointments to answering questions, you’ll ensure smooth operation and become a vital link between patients and the care they need. Plus, this fulfilling career offers flexible work arrangements to suit your lifestyle, along with the stability of a growing healthcare field.
What does a medical receptionist do?
- They greet patients and visitors warmly, answer questions, and address any concerns.
- They efficiently manage appointment scheduling, considering patient needs and doctor availability.
- They assist patients with completing forms, ensuring accuracy and completeness of medical information.
- They process payments efficiently, handling cash, credit cards, and navigating insurance and Medicare.
- They understand and adhere to strict medical privacy protocols. They may fax referrals, scan documents for electronic records, file paperwork, and handle email communication.
- They assist doctors and nurses by relaying messages, scheduling appointments, and maintaining a clean and organised reception area.
What makes a good medical receptionist?
A great medical receptionist is:
- Compassionate and caring
Compassion is a highly valued trait in this environment, as people may be receiving bad news, be stressed, have ongoing pain or just not feeling well. Not judging patients, having a warm demeanour and being there to ease their concerns will help to create a positive experience. - Professional and discrete
A great medical receptionist embodies professionalism and discretion in every aspect of their role. Professionalism entails more than just adhering to a dress code or maintaining a polite demeanour—it encompasses a deep commitment to excellence in communication, organisation, and customer service. - Thoughtful
Adding extra touches to your interactions with patients will make them feel super welcomed and cared for. Going the extra mile by making sure they have what they need, are informed and comfortable will definitely be remembered.
How much can you earn as a medical receptionist in Australia?
Medical receptionists make a great salary for their qualification level, averaging anywhere between $55,000 to $65,000 per year, according to Seek. This salary can set you up to front any medical practice across Australia.
How do you become a medical receptionist?
There are a few paths you can take to become a medical receptionist:
Formal Qualifications:
While not always mandatory, completing a relevant course can give you a competitive edge and equip you with the necessary skills.
Here are some options to consider:
- Medical Reception and Terminology (short course)
This course is ideal for career changers seeking to transition from customer service or administration roles to becoming medical receptionists in GP clinics or allied health facilities. It also benefits individuals with general office administration qualifications who aim to specialise in healthcare by acquiring medical knowledge and skills, thereby enhancing their employability within the healthcare sector. - Certificate III in Business (Medical Administration)
BSB30120 Certificate III in Business (Medical Administration) course provides a solid foundation in medical office administration and reception duties. - Certificate III in Health Administration
HLT37315 Certificate III in Health Administration is a broader qualification diving deeper into healthcare customer service, designing business documents, assisting in controlling stocks and supplies, infection control and much more.
All of our courses are available to study online and we regularly welcome students looking to study a medical receptionist course from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, Hobart, Darwin and all other areas throughout Australia.
Experience and Skills:
Even without formal qualifications, strong transferable skills can make you a valuable candidate.
Here’s what employers often look for:
- Having experience in a fast-paced environment where you dealt with enquiries, scheduling, and data management can be a plus for employers.
- Familiarity with medical software, appointment scheduling programs, and electronic records is highly regarded.
- The ability to clearly communicate with patients, doctors, and other staff, while maintaining a professional and empathetic demeanour, is essential.
- You’ll need strong organisational skills to manage appointments, and patient flow, and ensure a smooth-running reception area .
- Discretion and attention to detail as you’ll be handling confidential medical information, maintaining confidentiality and accuracy is paramount.
Does this sound like a great job for you?
Kick-start your career in healthcare as a Medical Receptionist with one of our courses. Call us at 1300 887 082 or click on the ‘Book a Call’ button below to setup a time to speak to one of our Careers Advisors.
